Bangkok: A fire that erupted at a car repair shop on Soi Ratchadaphisek 36 has caused significant damage to an adjacent hotel, impacting approximately 10 rooms. The hotel's management has confirmed that no guests were injured as they managed to evacuate promptly.
According to Thai News Agency, Ms. Pae, the caretaker of the hotel, reported that the fire was first noticed by a housekeeper who observed flames near the motorcycle parking area behind the hotel. The housekeeper quickly alerted the building management, prompting an immediate evacuation as the hotel was fully booked the previous night. Guests were instructed to gather their belongings and evacuate, while staff moved vehicles from the vicinity of the repair shop. Fortunately, the evacuation was completed before the fire intensified, ensuring the safety of all guests and staff.
The fire resulted in damage to one room on the second floor and about 10 other rooms in the hotel. The management has assured that guests will receive refunds and has arranged alternative accommodations for those scheduled to stay. Monthly rental guests are being addressed in coordination with the district office, and compensation will be provided as per procedures. The hotel anticipates a closure of seven days to facilitate repairs and system checks.
Ms. Pae addressed claims that the fire was sparked by a cigarette butt thrown by a hotel guest, stating that the distance between the hotel and garage makes this unlikely. She also refuted the garage owner's assertion of a prior similar incident, clarifying that no such issue had been communicated to the hotel previously.
Inspections reveal that the hotel adheres to strict no-smoking policies, providing designated smoking areas and equipping each floor with fire safety measures like hoses and extinguishers. Police Colonel Arthit Promnok indicated that investigations are ongoing, relying on forensic evidence and witness testimonies to ascertain the cause of the fire.
Mr. Thaiwut Khankaew, Deputy Permanent Secretary of Bangkok, confirmed that the garage had the necessary licenses, but further investigation is required to assess any unauthorized modifications. The Bangkok Metropolitan Administration is prioritizing safety inspections for similar structures in the area to prevent future incidents.